Life expectancy associated with different ages at diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in high-income countries: 23 million person-years of observation

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing rapidly, particularly among younger age groups. Estimates suggest that people with diabetes die, on average, 6 years earlier than people without diabetes. We aimed to provide reliable estimates of the associations between age at diagnosis of diabetes and all-cause mortality, cause-specific mortality, and reductions in life expectancy.

METHODS

For this observational study, we conducted a combined analysis of individual-participant data from 19 high-income countries using two large-scale data sources: the Emerging Risk Factors Collaboration (96 cohorts, median baseline years 1961-2007, median latest follow-up years 1980-2013) and the UK Biobank (median baseline year 2006, median latest follow-up year 2020). We calculated age-adjusted and sex-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause mortality according to age at diagnosis of diabetes using data from 1 515 718 participants, in whom deaths were recorded during 23·1 million person-years of follow-up. We estimated cumulative survival by applying age-specific HRs to age-specific death rates from 2015 for the USA and the EU.

FINDINGS

For participants with diabetes, we observed a linear dose-response association between earlier age at diagnosis and higher risk of all-cause mortality compared with participants without diabetes. HRs were 2·69 (95% CI 2·43-2·97) when diagnosed at 30-39 years, 2·26 (2·08-2·45) at 40-49 years, 1·84 (1·72-1·97) at 50-59 years, 1·57 (1·47-1·67) at 60-69 years, and 1·39 (1·29-1·51) at 70 years and older. HRs per decade of earlier diagnosis were similar for men and women. Using death rates from the USA, a 50-year-old individual with diabetes died on average 14 years earlier when diagnosed aged 30 years, 10 years earlier when diagnosed aged 40 years, or 6 years earlier when diagnosed aged 50 years than an individual without diabetes. Using EU death rates, the corresponding estimates were 13, 9, or 5 years earlier.

INTERPRETATION

Every decade of earlier diagnosis of diabetes was associated with about 3-4 years of lower life expectancy, highlighting the need to develop and implement interventions that prevent or delay the onset of diabetes and to intensify the treatment of risk factors among young adults diagnosed with diabetes.

FUNDING

British Heart Foundation, Medical Research Council, National Institute for Health and Care Research, and Health Data Research UK.

Is transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma really more challenging? A propensity score-matched analysis

PURPOSE

Minimally invasive surgery is the gold standard treatment for adrenal masses, but it may be a challenging procedure in the case of pheochromocytoma (PHEO). The aim of the present study is to report the results of transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (TLA) in cases of PHEO in comparison to other types of adrenal lesions.

METHODS

From 1994 to 2021, 629 patients underwent adrenalectomy. Twenty-two and thirty-five patients, respectively, were excluded because they underwent bilateral and open adrenalectomy, leaving 572 patients for inclusion. Of these, 114 patients had PHEO (Group A), and 458 had other types of lesions (Group B). To adjust for potential baseline confounders, a propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

After PSM, 114 matched pairs of patients were identified from each group. Statistically significant differences were not observed when comparing the median operative time (85 and 90 min in Groups A and B, respectively, p = 0.627), conversion rate [6 (5.3%) in each group, p = 1.000], transfusion rate [4 (3.5%) and 3 (2.6%) in Groups A and B, respectively, p = 1.000], complication rate [7 (6.1%) and 9 (7.9%) in Groups A and B, respectively, p = 0.796), median postoperative hospital stay (3.9 and 3.6 days in Groups A and B, respectively, p = 0.110), and mortality rate [1 (0.9%) in each group, p = 1.000].

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this analysis, the results of TLA for PHEO are equivalent to those of TLA for other types of adrenal lesions, but the fundamental requirements are multidisciplinary patient management and adequate surgeon experience. Further prospective studies are required to draw definitive conclusions.

Molecular characterization of intergeneric hybrids between Malus and Pyrus

Apple (Malus) and pear (Pyrus) are economically important fruit crops well known for their unique textures, flavours, and nutritional qualities. Both genera are characterised by a distinct pattern of secondary metabolites, which directly affect not only resistance to certain diseases, but also have significant impacts on the flavour and nutritional value of the fruit. The identical chromosome numbers, similar genome size, and their recent divergence date, together with DNA markers have shown that apple and pear genomes are highly co-linear. This study utilized comparative genomic approaches, including simple sequence repeats, high resolution single nucleotide polymorphism melting analysis, and single nucleotide polymorphism chip analysis to identify genetic differences among hybrids of Malus and Pyrus, and F2 offspring. This research has demonstrated and validated that these three marker types, along with metabolomics analysis are very powerful tools to detect and confirm hybridity of progeny derived from crosses between apple and pear in both cross directions. Furthermore, this work analysed the genus-specific metabolite patterns and the resistance to fire blight (Erwinia amylovora) in progeny. The findings of this work will enhance and accelerate the breeding of novel tree fruit crops that benefit producers and consumers, by enabling marker assisted selection of desired traits introgressed between pear and apple.

Innovative methods for health monitoring in Europe: results of a cross-sectional study

Background

Innovative solutions are used to monitor the spread of COVID-19, to research and develop vaccines, and to ensure online privacy and security. The aim of the study is to investigate which innovative methods, including algorithms and digital tools (e.g., social media, artificial intelligence, contact tracing applications) are used to monitor health issues related to COVID-19 in Europe, and who is using them.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed and administered online to European countries’ representatives and stakeholders of the project Population Health Information Research Infrastructure (PHIRI). The survey investigated the use of innovative solutions and digital tools in Europe to monitor COVID-19 and vaccination programs, to research and develop diagnostics and teleconsultations, and to fight online disinformation. Legislative and ethical aspects were also considered. A descriptive data analysis was performed.

Results

19 responses were collected from 14 countries. Digital tools are used to monitor COVID-19 (13/14 countries), vaccination programs (12/14), for telemedicine (7/14), and to fight disinformation (10/14). Specific algorithms to detect the patterns of the pandemic spread are available in five countries. The main target groups of the tools are the general population, healthcare providers, patients and epidemiologists. The uptake rate of the tools ranged 5-100% across countries. Measures to evaluate the impact of digital tools (e.g., user surveys, reviews, evaluation teams) have been adopted in seven countries. Information on legislative and ethical aspects related to the use of digital solutions are available in 10 countries.

Conclusions

The development and use of innovative methods for population health monitoring and research purposes have been the key to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Improving the uptake rate, impact assessment of digital tools and fight against disinformation could enhance countries’ preparedness for future pandemics.

Key messages

• Given that digital solutions are deployed in population health monitoring, research, and for online privacy and security, they have a key role in mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Enhancement of the uptake rate and assessment of digital tools, and fight against disinformation could strengthen countries’ preparedness for future pandemics.

Systematic review on digitals tools used for contact tracing of COVID-19 patients: interim results

Background

Contact tracing is a public health intervention implemented in synergy with other measures, such as testing, physical distancing, and vaccination, to curb the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital solutions have been developed worldwide to enhance the contact tracing process. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of tracking COVID-19 patients using digital tools.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed on eight online databases to identify observational studies on digital contact tracing, published 2020-2021, in English. Studies identified through the ‘Population Health Information Research Infrastructure’ project were also included. An ad hoc form has been deployed for data extraction of relevant information. Quality assessment of the included studies will be performed using validated tools.

Results

Over 8000 records were identified, of which 27 met the inclusion criteria: 16 modelling and 11 population-based studies. A study was based on GPS technology, four were Bluetooth-based, and others used digital technologies and manual tracing. The uptake rate of the tools ranged 19-100% across the studies. Most studies compared digital contact tracing with other strategies (e.g., no intervention, lockdown). Digital contact tracing was associated with improved identification of contact persons (9 studies), reduction of the effective reproduction number or covid-19 infections (8 studies), and increased effectiveness in combination with other containment measures (9 studies). Security and privacy issues were considered in 8 studies.

Conclusions

Digital contact tracing contributes in reducing further transmission, especially with sufficient population uptake of the applications and in combination with other public health measures. However, its deployment has been limited by security and privacy issues. Further studies are required to investigate the combined impact of digital and conventional contact tracing and enhance privacy and security.

Impact of COVID-19 on hospitalisation for diverse conditions in European countries

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on Europe. Health systems came under strain, with non-urgent treatments postponed and resources reserved for treatment of COVID-19 patients. Delayed care seeking has been reported, for fear of infection with SARS-CoV2. Yet, the scale of this impact remains under researched. This study aims to compare indirect effects of the pandemic in a European cross-country study aiming to highlight the potential of Population Health Information Research Infrastructures (www.phiri.eu).

Methods

Focusing on (i) major vascular events (MVE) and (ii) elective surgery for joint replacements (ESJR) as well as (iii) serious trauma this study analyses individual level hospital data in a standardised harmonised data model. We compared pre-pandemic incidence rates (2018-2019) with rates for 2020 and 2021. Analyses are systematically contrasted with SARS CoV2 incidence rates, and policy measures taken based on the OxCGRT index.

Results

A drop in hospital discharge rates was observed during the pandemic in all countries but differing by condition and month. Socio-economic differences also varied by condition. Our evidence suggests that periods of more severe policy measures also correlated with more dramatic drops in regular hospital activities.

Conclusions

Our findings provide new insights on the dramatic level of de-prioritisation of essential services faced by non-COVID-19 patients in Europe. From a public health perspective, hospital escalation plans should be developed early on to avoid negative mid and long-term health and financial consequences of indirect effects. The study demonstrates the tremendous potential in exploiting health information systems in a systematic way across countries and the value of the PHIRI system. Further research should investigate policy trade-offs involved in severe lockdown measures during a pandemic and variations in health service resilience for future pandemic preparedness.

Measured vs self-reported overweight/obesity in the Italian adult population: CUORE Project 2018-19

Background

In monitoring population health and the effectiveness of public health strategies, the body mass index (BMI) is often assessed within national surveys from self-reported height and weight rather than measured values. Using data collected within a recent health examination survey (HES), the discrepancies between self-reported and measured values were assessed, and correction models were estimated and implemented on national interview survey data.

Methods

Within the CUORE Project, the Italian National Institute of Health conducted the HES 2018-2019 measuring height and weight as well as collecting data on self-reported values in random samples of general population aged 35-74 years residing in ten (of 20) Italian regions distributed in the North, Centre and South: 1033 men and 1061 women.

Results

Self-reported and measured data comparison showed greater differences in mean values of height than weight and in women than in men (height +2 cm in men and +3.2 in women; weight -0.7 kg and -1.4 kg, respectively) and a corresponding underestimation of BMI (-0.7 kg/m2 and -1.4 kg/m2, respectively). Differences were stable across age groups and educational levels, except for height discrepancy, which was greatest in women aged 65-74 years. Self-reported vs measured prevalence were: normal weight 39.7%-33.3% in men and 54.8%-44.7% in women, overweight 45.8%-46.1% and 26.0%-29.2%, obesity 13.8%-20.1% and 15.7%-23.9%. Linear regression models adjusted by sex and age classes were assessed for height and weight (R2 > =0.92) and implemented to estimate adjusted BMI and normal weight/overweight/obesity prevalence on the national multi-purpose interview survey data collected by the Italian National Institute of Statistics.

Conclusions

To provide more accurate prevalence of normal weight, overweight and obesity, self-reported values could be adjusted using correction models developed on the basis of the relationship between self-reported and measured height and weight values.

Key messages

• Discrepancies between self-reported and measured values of height and weoght were found.

• Self-reported values could be adjusted using correction models developed on the basis of the relationship between self-reported and measured height and weight values.

Coronavirus-related Health Literacy in elderly and adult population during COVID pandemic in Italy

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic caused an overabundance of valid and invalid information rapidly spread via traditional media, by internet and digital communication. Health Literacy (HL), as the ability to access, understand, appraise, apply health information, is fundamental for finding, interpreting, correctly using COVID-19 information.

Methods

In 2021, in the framework of the participation to the WHO M-POHL (Measuring Population and Organizational Health Literacy) network, a survey was conducted in a representative sample of the Italian general population aged 18+ years (N = 3,500). The validated HL questionnaire included coronavirus-related HL (HL-COVID, 16-items), general HL, sociodemographic characteristics, risk factors, lifestyles sections. For the HL-items, a 4-point Likert scale was applied: very easy, easy, difficult, very difficult. HL-COVID levels were defined as Good: very easy+easy>81.3% (more than 12 of 16 answers); Sufficient: 50.0%<very easy+easy < =81.3% (9-12 of 16 answers); Limited: very easy+easy < =50.0% (fewer than 9 of 16 answers). Elderly were responders aged 65+ years, the remaining ones were defined as adults. Ordinal Logistic Regression analysis was performed to assess the association of HL-COVID with sociodemographic characteristics (sex, age-group, educational level, financial deprivation).

Results

Good HL-COVID prevalence was lower in elderly than in adults (44.8% vs. 51.0%, p-value=0.001); the opposite for both sufficient (22.8% vs. 19.9%) and limited (32.5% vs. 29.1%) levels, but not statistically significant. The odds of a low HL-COVID (sufficient/limited) increased by 31% in the elderly and by 50%, 92%, and almost triple in persons with a low, considerable, and severe financial deprivation level, respectively.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need to improve HL and to prepare the general population for future emergency and non-emergency situations, confirming that HL can be considered a social vaccine.

Key messages

Redo cardiac surgery in the era of percutaneous solutions: pattern of presentation and outcomes in a single tertiary care center

Introduction

The advent of new medical and interventional approaches has recently impacted on the referral for redo surgical operations. Little is known on current practice pattern and outcomes.

Purpose

We reviewed our institutional experience of 10 years (January 2011–December 2020) in a single university affiliated center to document frequency, outcome, and complications of the various types of redo procedures.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected computed institutional database developed according to STS/EACTS recommendations.

Results

During study period 616 patients were referred for redo cardiac procedures, of which 129 patients underwent either medical or interventional procedures (75 thrombolysis, 22 valve-in-valve, 19 native mitral and or tricuspid percutaneous treatment, 13 paravalvular leakage devices), 459 patients were operated on, and 28 patients were denied any invasive treatment because of futility. Study group included these 459 surgical patients with a mean age of 62±12.7 years (octogenarians 5.6%, female sex 52.8%, diabetes 19.5%, chronic kidney disease 30%, urgent/emergent status 34.8%, third-time sternotomy 9.8%). The EuroSCORE II averaged 25.7±15.4%. Study group patients represented a nearly constant subgroup over the 6890 patients operated over this decade. Most frequent surgical procedures were valve operations, which were accomplished in 48.6% (223 pts), whereas isolated coronary bypass surgery was performed in 1.9% (9 pts) only. Valve thrombosis, mechanical prosthesis malfunction, paravalvular leakage, bioprosthetic failure and endocarditis (87% on prosthetic valve) were the most frequent indications. Combined procedures were performed in 15.2% (70 pts). Aortic root, ascending and arch replacement procedures were performed in 10.9% (50 pts, aortic dissection 7.8%). Cardiac transplantation in the setting of previous cardiac surgery was performed in 13.1% (60 pts including: previous conventional procedures [29 pts], mechanical circulatory devices [28 pts, 25 left ventricular assist device and 3 total artificial heart] and re-transplantation [3 pts]). Other procedures were performed in 10.2% (47 pts). Overall hospital mortality was 23,9%, rates of major complications were: surgical revision for bleeding 2,9%, Acute Kidney Injury (I/F) 17,4%, prolonged mechanical ventilation 12,9%, stroke 2,7%. Age, surgical priority, endocarditis, and heart failure represented the major independent predictors of morbidity and mortality.

Conclusions

Although percutaneous solutions are increasing their consensus, the rate of redo cardiac surgical procedures remained stable during the last 10 years. Outcomes are satisfactory despite increasingly complex patients features. Careful Heart Team evaluation is mandatory.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Biomarker-based prediction of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular outcomes in individuals of the general population with and without diabetes mellitus

Introduction

Cardiovascular biomarkers may reflect different aspects of cardiovascular disease, including myocardial tissue damage (high-sensitive cardiac troponin [hs-cTn]), hemodynamic stress (N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide [NT-proBNP)), or inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP]).

Purpose

To determine the risk for fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), a high-risk group for cardiovascular complications, after accounting for these biomarkers and to determine the risk associated with these biomarkers.

Methods

Harmonized data of population-based studies from the Biomarkers for Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in Europe (BiomaCaRE) and MOnica Risk, Genetics, Archiving and Monograph (MORGAM) consortia were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs, 95% confidence intervals [CI] per standard deviation) for these biomarkers adjusted for diabetes, patient characteristics and biomarkers for their association with the primary endpoint of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events during a median follow-up of 9.6 years (maximum 28 years). Additionally, a years-of-life-lost analysis was conducted stratified by prevalent diabetes and specific biomarker cut-offs known to be associated with increased risk for events (hs-cTnI >5 ng/L, NTproBNP >125 ng/L, hs-CRP >5mg/L).

Results

We included 95,302 individuals, of whom 6,501 had DM (6.8%). Cox-regression analysis revealed DM to be independently associated with the primary endpoint (2.1 [95% CI 1.9, 2.3], p<0.001) despite adjustment for clinical characteristics and biomarkers. Also, all three biomarkers were independent predictors themselves: log-transformed NT-proBNP 1.3 [95% CI 1.3, 1.4] p<0.001; log-transformed hs-CRP 1.2 [95% CI 1.1, 1.2] p<0.001; third-root-transformed hs-cTnI 1.1 [95% CI 1.0, 1.1] p=0.0038). The sex-, age- and cohort-adjusted HR for the primary endpoint according to absolute biomarker concentrations derived by cox-regression models using cubic splines is provided for the three biomarkers in Figure 1. Upon dichotomization of biomarkers, individuals with diabetes and at least one elevated biomarker lost a median of 15.5 healthy years because of the primary endpoint (Kaplan-Meier plot in Figure 2, with age on the x-axis).

Conclusion

Our findings confirm that diabetes confers a residual cardiovascular risk beyond adjustment for clinical characteristics and cardiovascular biomarker. Furthermore, biomarkers may aid in the identification of patients at highest risk, which should be considered in future models of risk prediction.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Incremental utility of circulating biomarkers for cardiovascular risk prediction beyond the updated SCORE2 model

Background

Accurate risk prediction for future cardiovascular disease (CVD) is crucial for timely initiation of preventive measures in high-risk individuals. Most risk scores, such as the recently updated SCORE2 risk-prediction model supported by the European Society of Cardiology, consider only traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Whether the addition of circulating biomarkers to the existing SCORE2 model may improve risk prediction is unclear.

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the incremental utility of four widely available circulating biomarkers to improve the prediction of 10-year CVD-risk beyond SCORE2.

Methods

Data from ten prospective population-based cohorts from seven countries across Europe were collected if information on SCORE2-variables and at least one of the following four investigational biomarkers was available: high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI), NT-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Primary outcome was incidence of CVD at 10 years, defined as the composite of cardiovascular mortality, non-fatal myocardial infarction and non-fatal stroke. We used Fine and Gray models adjusted for competing-risk and SCORE2-variables as well as penalized cubic splines to assess and visualize the association of individual biomarkers with incident CVD. In a multimarker approach, we performed backward selection to identify biomarkers providing independent predictive value beyond SCORE2-components. C-indices and category-free net reclassification index (cfNRI) were used to compare the performance of the original SCORE2 model to the biomarker-extended model.

Results

In 78'507 individuals, median age was 50 years and 50.3% were females. NT-proBNP, hs-CRP and hs-cTnI but not eGFR showed strong associations with 10-year CVD-risk when adjusted for SCORE2 and provided incremental predictive value when individually added to SCORE2 (Figure 1). In a multimarker approach, all three biomarkers remained independently associated with CVD beyond SCORE2 with strongest association of NT-proBNP, followed by hs-CRP and hs-cTnI (Table 1). The simultaneous addition of these three biomarkers to the SCORE2 model significantly increased discrimination (C-index; 0.782 [95% CI, 0.757, 0.806] versus 0.793 [95% CI, 0.768, 0.817], Delta 0.011 [95% CI, 0.005, 0.016]) and risk reclassification, driven by an improvement in non-events (cfNRIoverall 0.17 [95% CI, 0.12, 0.22], cfNRIevents 0.06 [95% CI, 0.02, 0.11], cfNRInon-events 0.11 [95% CI, 0.10, 0.11]).

Conclusion

NT-proBNP, hs-CRP and hs-cTnI but not eGFR provide incremental predictive value when added to the SCORE2 risk-prediction model and may help to further improve personalized CVD-risk prediction.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): European Community's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013)

In vitro evaluation of the effects of methanolic plant extracts on the embryonation rate of Ascaridia galli eggs

The present study aims to find efficient alternatives to synthetic anthelmintics among ethno-veterinary herbs. Ascaridia galli eggs isolated from the worm uterus were exposed in vitro to methanolic extracts (ME) of nine plant species such as Achillea millefolium (AM), Artemisia absinthium (AA), Artemisia vulgaris (AV), Cicerbita alpina (CA), Cichorium intybus (CI), Inula helenium (IH), Origanum vulgare (OV), Tanacetum vulgare (TV), Tanacetum parthenium (TP). Flubendazole (FL), 0.5% formalin with dimethylsulfoxide and Petri dishes without the addition of reagents were used as positive, negative and untreated control respectively. The effects of the different ME at concentrations 0.500, 0.325, 0.200 mg/ml were assessed on the embryonic development (ED) of the eggs in duplicate. Logit analysis was used to calculate EC₅₀ values. A generalized linear mixed model, having plant species and concentration as fixed effect and day as repeated measure, was used to determine differences in ED. Estimated EC₅₀ was the lowest for FL at 0.11 mg/ml. CA and TV followed with 0.27 mg/ml and 0.32 mg/ml. ED for FL was significantly lower (25%) than that of CA (47%). The analysis showed 0.5 mg/ml of the ME of CA and TV significantly affected the ED at 35% and 42% inhibitions respectively. The ED for all ME showed similar pattern i.e., relatively higher efficacy in the first experimental week compared to the rest of the experimental period. The effect from all multicomponent extracts is time and dose dependent. The plants have promising results in inhibiting ED, contributing to the identification of alternative anthelmintic treatments.

Comparison of metabolic syndrome prevalence using four definitions – a case study from Finland

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an increasing population health threat in Europe. Several MetS definitions are available. Our aim was to compare four different MetS definitions among Finnish adults, to assess their agreement and to evaluate the impact of the choice of the definition on the prevalence of MetS.

Methods

Data from FinHealth 2017, a cross-sectional population health survey, focusing on adults over 25 years were applied in the analysis (n = 5667). Measured data on anthropometrics, blood pressure, biomarkers and questionnaire data were used to classify the participants according to the definitions. The definitions chosen for the comparison were those by the World Health Organization (1998), National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (2004), International Diabetes Federation (2005) and Joint Interim Statement (2009).

Results

The four MetS definitions resulted in substantially different MetS prevalences among the Finnish adult population: 18% by WHO, 32% by NCEP-ATP III, 43% by IDF and 46% by JIS. Among all participants, only 13.5% were identified to have MetS according to all four definitions. The component of the definitions with highest prevalence was elevated blood pressure among men and central obesity among women. Prevalence of Mets increased with age; especially steeply among the youngest age groups. Due to varying cut-off points the prevalence of different components varied between the definitions. The agreement, estimated with kappa coefficients, ranged from 0.38 (WHO vs. IDF and WHO vs. JIS) to 0.95 (IDF vs. JIS).

Conclusions

The differences between observed MetS prevalences using the four different definitions were large. For cross-country comparisons as well as for trend analyses within a country, it is essential to use the same definition of MetS to avoid possible bias due to differences in used definitions as well as to use standardized measurement protocols in measuring different components of MetS.

Key messages

It is important to use standardized measurement protocols during data collection to achieve comparable data. For cross-country comparisons as well as for trend analyses within countries, it is essential to use identical MetS definitions to avoid possible biases.

Research methodologies to assess the impact of COVID-19

Background

PHIRI WP5 aims at identifying the research approaches, data uses, pathways, indicators, and new methodologies to assess the impact of COVID-19 on Population Health.

Methods

Based on a collaborative work of researchers from 20 European institutions, several literature reviews were planned using automatized strategies to map the research methods analysing the impact of COVID-19 and data pathways: i) a scoping literature search to identify indicators of direct and indirect impact; ii) systematic literature reviews on determinants of severity for short and longterm health outcomes; and iii) a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to determine the effectiveness and impact of tracking COVID-19 patients using digitals tools.

Results

In November 2020, more than 73,000 papers about COVID-19 were published. About 16,000 (22%) reported data aspects, and approximately half reported both data aspects and methodologies. The most used indicators of direct impact are incidence and prevalence, mortality, severity and sequelae. To explore the etiological and prognostic effects of frailty, multimorbidity and socioeconomic status, the main identified outcomes were: infection, hospitalization, ICU admission, mortality by COVID-19 (etiological); as well as ICU admission, hospitalization, survival, functional decline, quality of life, disability, mental health difficulties and work absence (prognostic). The search generated 10,139 records. The initial literature search about mobile applications and electronic devices for tracking of COVID-19 patients yielded 2500 records.

Conclusions

The use of machine learning tools to synthesize the research about methods and data pathways on COVID-19 impact is feasible, as the amount of published evidence is very large. The vast amount of available literature on COVID-19 requires specific methods of literature search and synthesis, and an integrated effort of an extensive network of researchers.

Cardiac troponin I and incident stroke in European cohorts – insights from the BiomarCaRE project

Background

Stroke is a common cause of death and a leading cause of disability and morbidity. Stroke risk assessment remains a challenge but circulating biomarkers may improve risk prediction. Controversial evidence is available on the predictive ability of troponin concentrations and the risk of stroke in the community. Furthermore, reports on the predictive value of troponin concentrations for different stroke subtypes (ischemic and hemorrhagic) are scarce.

Methods

High-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hsTnI) concentrations were assessed in 82,881 individuals (median age 50.7 years, 49.7% men) free of stroke or myocardial infarction at baseline from nine prospective European community cohorts. Multiple imputations were used to handle missing data. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to determine relative risks, followed by measures of discrimination and reclassification using 10-fold cross-validation to control for over-optimism. Follow-up was based upon linkage with national hospitalization registries and causes of death registries.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 12.7 years, 3,033 individuals were diagnosed with incident non-fatal or fatal stroke (N=1,654 ischemic strokes, N=612 hemorrhagic strokes, N=767 indeterminate strokes). In multivariable regression models hsTnI concentrations were associated with overall stroke (hazard ratio (HR) per one standard deviation increase 1.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–1.21), ischemic stroke (HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.09–1.21) and hemorrhagic stroke (HR 1.10, 95% CI 1.01–1.21). Adding hsTnI concentrations to classical cardiovascular risk factors (C-indices 0.808, 0.840 and 0.735 for overall, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, respectively) increased the C-index significantly, but modestly. In individuals with an intermediate ten-year risk (5–20%) the net reclassification improvement for overall stroke was 0.039 (p=0.010).

Conclusions

Elevated hsTnI concentrations are associated with an increased risk of incident stroke in the community, irrespective of stroke subtype. Adding hsTnI concentrations to classical risk factors only modestly improved estimation of 10-year risk of stroke in the overall cohort, but might be of some value in individuals at an intermediate risk.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): The BiomarCaRE Project is funded by the European Union Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under grant agreement no.HEALTH-F2-2011-278913. This project has received further funding from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement No 648131).

The CUORE project cardiovascular risk assessment in primary care: the ongoing experience in Italy

Background

Italian National Prevention Plan 2005-08 included 10-year cardiovascular risk assessment (10-CR) for the general population aged 35-69 years using the CUORE Project risk score. GPs were encouraged to perform 10-CR and send data to the Cardiovascular Risk Observatory (CRO).

Aim

To show updated data of the ongoing surveillance system of the 10-CR in the Italian adult population.

Methods

Data were collected using the cuore.exe software, freely downloadable by GPs from the CUORE Project website (www.cuore.iss.it). The CRO provides a web-platform to compare data on 10-CR and risk factors at regional/national level. For persons examined at least twice, variations in risk factors from baseline to follow-up and 95% confidence intervals (C.I.) were calculated using methods for matched pair samples.

Results

Up to February 2019, about 3,500 GPs downloaded cuore.exe; about 300,000 CR assessments on about 140,000 persons were sent to CRO. Mean CR was 3.1% in women (W), 8.5% in men (M); 28% of M, 64% of W were at low risk (CR < 3%); 9.9% of M, 0.4% of W were at high risk (CR ≥ 20%); 26% of M, 16% of W were current smokers; 13% of M, 10% of W were diabetic; 33% of hypertensive M, 35% of hypertensive W were under specific treatment. Among those with at least two risk assessments (31% of the sample), 11% shifted to a lower risk class after one year (14% of M, 7% of W). Systolic blood pressure mean levels decreased by 0.6 mmHg (95%-C.I. 0.3-0.8 mmHg), diastolic blood pressure by 0.5 mmHg (0.2-0.7 mmHg), total cholesterol by 4.1 mg/dl (3.0-5.2 mg/dl), smokers prevalence by 3.1% (2.3%-4.0%); HDL-cholesterol increased in W by 0.3 mg/dl (0.1-0.5 mg/dl).

Conclusions

Data demonstrate that 10-CR assessment can be an effective first step to implement preventive actions in primary care. Individual risk score is a useful tool for GPs to assess CR and promote primary prevention focusing on the adoption of healthy lifestyles. Data can be used to support health policy decision process.

Key messages

The cuore.exe software, freely downloadable from the CUORE Project website-www.cuore.iss.it, allows GPs to assess the CUORE Project risk score, to collect and to send data to the CVD Risk Observatory. 10 year Cardiovascular Risk assessment in the general adult population can be an effective first step to implement preventive actions in primary care.

Differential susceptibility to allostatic load and educational inequalities in coronary heart disease

Background

Differential exposure to lifestyle factors may mediate the association between education and cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, differential susceptibility (the effect of exposure to the same “dose” of risk factors differs across groups) may also elevate CVD risk but the causal pathways remain unclear. Allostatic Load (AL) is a marker of cumulative biological burden resulting from mal-adaptation to chronic stressors. We aimed to examine the role of differential exposure and susceptibility to AL and other factors in coronary heart disease (CHD) educational gradients in Europe.

Methods

51,328 35-74-year-old participants originally free of CVD from 21 European cohorts in the BiomarCaRE consortium were identified and followed for a median of 10 years to their first CHD event. We defined an AL score as the sum of z-scores of 8 markers from the cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory systems. To investigate the mediating role of AL (and smoking, alcohol and BMI) on educational differences in CHD incidence we applied marginal structural models and three-way decomposition on gender-specific additive hazards models.

Results

AL was a significant mediator of the association between educational status and CHD. The highest proportion mediated was observed in women, with 28% (95%CI 20% to 44%) attributable to differential exposure and 8% (95%CI 0% to 16%) to differential susceptibility. In men, AL mediated 16% of the increased CHD risk in the less educated, with 2% (95%CI 0%-6%) attributable to differential susceptibility. The effects of smoking, alcohol and BMI were relatively small for men and women, with a limited role of differential susceptibility.

Conclusions

While we found evidence of differential susceptibility to AL on CHD, effects were modest and the mediating effect of AL (and other lifestyle factors) was predominately via differential exposure. Controlling disproportionate exposure to AL may help reduce CHD morbidity among those with lower education.

Key messages

Educational inequalities in coronary heart disease in Europe were predominantly driven by differential exposure rather than susceptibility to allostatic load and other lifestyle factors. Controlling disproportionate exposure to AL may help reduce coronary heart disease morbidity among those with lower education.

Raised blood pressure in Italy: results of the CUORE Project-health examination survey 2018-2019

Background

The WHO Global Action Plan for the Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease (WHO-NCD) recommends a 25% relative reduction in the prevalence of raised blood pressure (RBP) by 2025. Prevalence of RBP and mean blood pressure in the Italian general adult population measured in the 2018 CUORE Project-Health Examination Survey are presented to investigate if Italy can reach this target.

Methods

Within the health examination survey conducted in 2018-2019, representative random samples of resident population, aged 35-74 years, stratified by age and sex (822 men and 869 women) were examined in 8 Italian Regions from the Northern, Central and Southern Italy. Blood pressure was measured by automated oscillometric device using standardized procedures and methods; mean level of two measurements are here considered. RBP is defined as systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure equal or greater than 140/90 mmHg or being under specific drug treatment. The survey is funded by the Italian Ministry of Health-CCM.

Results

Preliminary analysis shows that prevalence of RBP is 43% (95% C.I. 40-47) in men and 32% (29-36) in women. Prevalence of persons with raised blood pressure and not receiving pharmacological treatment is 19% (15-22) in men and 9% (5-12) in women. In men and women prevalence of raised blood pressure is significantly higher in the Southern Regions. Mean value of systolic blood pressure is 131 mmHg (130-132) in men and 122 mmHg (121-123) in women. Mean value of diastolic blood pressure is 77 mmHg (76-78) in men and 73 mmHg (72-74) in women.

Conclusions

Preliminary data underline that RBP is commonly observed in the Italian adult population. However, in comparison to data measured within the CUORE Project 10 years earlier, prevalence of RBP and mean blood pressure are declining, facilitating the meeting of WHO-NCDs target.

Key messages

Raised blood pressure is commonly observed in the Italian general adult population. If confirmed, in the last ten years prevalence of raised blood pressure and mean blood pressure are declining in the Italian general adult population.

Developing recommendations for good practice in national health reporting

Background

Health reporting should deliver up-to-date data and information on the population's health status, its determinants and on national (or regional) healthcare services. Establishing an information or discussion base for health policy is an important objective ('data for action'), but health reporting also addresses other target groups like scientists, the media or the general public. Depending on the needs and competencies of the respective target groups, requirements for health reporting formats will differ. At the same time, heterogeneity of health reporting practices in Member States causes, next to occasional language barriers, difficulties in facilitating access to EU-comparable information. To allow for alignment and identification of good practices, our study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the health reporting formats in the EU.

Methods

A web-based desk research of health reporting formats and their target groups was conducted among EU Member States and associated InfAct partner countries. Good practice examples were identified on the basis of quality criteria derived from 'Good Practice in Health Reporting' for Germany and the Eva PHR (Evaluation of National and Regional Public Health Reports) project. Based on the findings of the desk research, a guidance document for health reports will be drafted in close cooperation with InfAct partner countries.

Results

The guidance should accommodate the heterogeneity of reporting practices at EU level while defining desirable and feasible good practice standards. Although the focus is on public health reports, recommendations for other formats of health reporting will also be included. It will facilitate the preparation, dissemination and access to EU-comparable and high-quality health information.

Conclusions

The guidance is expected to be a useful tool for making health information adequately available to the targeted groups while reducing inequalities in health reporting across the EU.

Body mass index and obesity in Italy: results of CUORE Project-Health Examination Survey 2018-2019

Background

The WHO Global Action Plan for the Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease (WHO-NCD) recommends to halt the rise of obesity by 2025. Obesity is largely preventable. This preliminary analysis aims to assess mean level of BMI and prevalence of obesity in the Italian general adult population using the data collected within the CUORE Project to investigate if Italy can meet the WHO-NCD target.

Methods

Within the health examination survey conducted in 2018-2019, mean level of BMI and prevalence of obesity (BMI > =30 kg/m2) and overweight (25 < =BMI<30 kg/m2) were assessed in representative random samples of resident population, aged 35-74 years, stratified by age and sex (822 men and 869 women), from 8 Italian Regions in Northern, Central and Southern Italy. Weight and height were measured using standardized methods. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect data on educational level that was used as a proxy of socio-economic status. The survey is funded by the Italian Ministry of Health-CCM.

Results

In this preliminary analysis, mean level of BMI was 26.8 kg/m2 (95% C.I. 26.5-27.1) in men and 25.9 kg/m2 (25.6-26.3) in women. Prevalence of obesity was 19% (16-22) in men and 22% (19-25) in women; prevalence of overweight was 45% (41-48) in men and 28% (25-31) in women. Obesity resulted significantly higher in persons with lower educational level (primary or middle school) vs those with higher education: 26% (20-31) vs 16% (13-19) in men and 33% (27-38) vs 17% (14-20) in women. Both in men and women prevalence of obesity was significantly higher in the Southern regions.

Conclusions

Preliminary data show that more than half of Italian adults are overweight/obese. However, in comparison to BMI measured in the CUORE Project 10 years earlier, the prevalence of people at normal weight is increasing, moving in the direction of the WHO-NCDs obesity target. Preventive actions at community level should be more incisive in the population at low socio-economic level.

Key messages

Mean BMI and prevalence of obesity in the Italian general adult population are still high. If confirmed, in the last ten years an increase of normal weight prevalence in the Italian general adult population seems to be occurred.

Sodium intake in Italy from 2008 to 2019: results of the CUORE Project-Health Examination Surveys

Background

The WHO Global Action Plan for the Prevention of NCDs recommends a 30% relative reduction in mean population intake of salt/sodium. To this end, the Italian Ministry of Health (MoH) has strengthened prevention and health promotion through the “Gaining health: making healthy choices easy” Programme and the National Preventive Plan 2014-2019, in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Working group for Salt Reduction in Italy. To estimate the habitual salt intake and its trend in the general adult population, national surveys, funded by the MoH-CCM, are conducted within the CUORE Project.

Methods

Baseline salt intake by the use of 24h urine collections was assessed in 2008-2012 from representative random samples of residents in all Italian Regions. A new survey was conducted in 2018-2019 involving random samples of residents in 10 Regions. Urinary sodium excretion is assayed by a central lab at Federico II University of Naples, subjected to strict quality controls. Comparisons are made considering, for both periods, the first seven regions examined in the 2018-2019 survey and the age range of 35-74 years.

Results

Within the 2008-2012 survey, mean level of sodium chloride per day in 642 men and 627 women were 10.6 g (10.3-11.0 g) and 8.0 g (7.7-8.3 g) respectively, whereas in the 2018-2019 survey the corresponding mean levels in 673 men and 709 women were 9.3 g (95% C.I.: 9.1-9.6 g) and 7.1 g (6.9-7.3 g), respectively. A sodium chloride intake level lower than the WHO recommended target of 5g/day (or 85 mmol/day) was detected in 5% (3-6%) of men and 16% (13-19%) of women examined in 2008-2012 vs 9% (6-11%) of men and 24% (20-27%) of women examined in 2018-2019.

Conclusions

These preliminary data show that the average habitual sodium intake in Italy is still higher than recommended but a significant reduction seems to occur. These results fully justify and encourage the ongoing preventive initiatives of MoH, facilitating the meeting of the WHO-NCD target.

Key messages

Habitual salt intake in the Italian general adult population is still higher than the recommended by the WHO. If confirmed, in the last ten years a reduction of habitual salt intake in Italian general adult population seems to be occurred.

National nodes: a tool to enable efficient work of Distributed Infrastructure on Population Health

 

The European framework of health information (HI) consists - besides the supra-national framework - of national frameworks of health infrastructures. It is therefore essential to strengthening capacities to provide HI and carry out research in countries.

Nowadays, one can experience lack of coordination, communication and cooperation between stakeholders in a country, leading to overlap or duplication of research and field-work. InfAct proposes a tool to overcome a majority of these difficulties by encouraging MSs to establish national nodes (NN) as a national focal point for DIPoH. A NN is a building block of DIPoH often coordinated by a national institution or governmental unit that functions as a NN and brings together relevant national stakeholders in an organised way. Researchers from public health institutes and research groups constitute the NN to share expertise and updated knowledge on HI with each other.

Currently, there are some active NN in the EU, with differences in scope, scale and initial purpose, due to different organisation of HI systems in countries. Such heterogeneity can also be found in national eHealth strategies. Diverse organizational arrangements exist which has proven to influence collaborative activities. At the same time new needs are arising, such as to better bridge the digital HI between research and health care, so that our health care systems can faster contribute to integrated data driven insights. This also relates to the debate on the Health Data Space, which creation is stated in the mission letter to the new European Commissioner for Health. For example, the eHealth Network has been discussing policy documents targeted at national level policy with regard to the organization of National eHealth Networks.

In this pitch presentation, an overview of different practices will be presented with proposals for future work in this area, including the role of NN in DIPoH and proposals for their sustainability.

Panelists:

H Van Oyen

Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium Department of Public Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium

Contact: herman.vanoyen@sciensano.be

S Montante

Brussels Liaison Office, National Institute of Health of Italy (ISS), Brussels, Belgium

Contact: sabrina.montante@iss.it

E Bacry

Health Data Hub, Santś publique France, Paris, France

E Bernal-Delgado

Health Services and Policy Research Group, Institute for Health Sciences in Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain

Contact: ebernal.iacs@aragon.es

C Sousa Pinto

Advanced Analytics and Intelligence, Shared Services In Ministry Of Health, Lisbon, Portugal

Contact: catiasousapinto@gmail.com

Evaluating process-mining interoperability: stroke case analysis on Italian health real-world data

Background

The Institute for Health Sciences in Aragon developed a process-mining based algorithm deployed using a container solution to describe the Stroke Care Pathway reproducible in different Health Systems. Our aim is to apply the proposed solution to administrative data of an Italian region to explore interoperability in the case of the stroke care; the study is developed in the context of the Joint Action on Health Information 'InfAct' funded by the European Commission.

Methods

The target population included 1538055 residents in Marche Region who received National Health System (NHS) assistance in 2017. The collected information was sex, date of birth and death, residence from NHS Beneficiaries database; admission and discharge date/time, hospital code, admission type, discharge status, up to 6 diagnoses from Hospital Discharge database; admission date/time, urgent care facility code, discharge status, diagnosis from Emergency Care database. Patients without hospital/urgent care events were excluded from NHS Beneficiaries database. Care pathway traces and map with frequency information, timing across the pathway and timeline plots with time information were the outputs obtained.

Results

Data included 17752 patients, 10390 hospital, and 18329 urgent care events. Results were represented graphically, easy to read and spread: 500 episodes of stroke were detected, 66% of patients was hospitalised after emergency room (ER) admissions, 19% directly hospitalised and 10% discharged after ER admission. The most frequent access and exit points of the pathway were ER admission and hospital discharge.

Conclusions

The application of the stroke case to Italian data demonstrates feasibility and usefulness of interoperability in analysing health care administrative data for public health purposes. A European health information system is crucial to build capacity between researchers across Europe and improve health data on Health Monitoring and Health System Performance Assessment.

Key messages

Sharing a process-mining methodology deployed using a container solution is a useful strategy to describe care pathways and ensures results’ reliability across European Health Systems. Developing and testing tools to encourage interoperability between researchers across Europe is essential for public health policymaker in Europe.

A sustainable ECHI-shortlist

Background

The European Core Health Indicators (ECHI) list provides a 'snapshot' of European public health (including care). It is the result of consecutive EU-wide projects in response to a 1998 European Commission (EC) call to establish an indicator list as the core of the EU public health monitoring system. The current list contains 88 indicators, a large part of which have been implemented and used across the EU. Using ECHI to internationally compare public health aspects adds value to national health information. Currently, EC maintains a tool in which the indicators can be consulted. However, no formal governing entity exists. The aim of this study, under the Joint Action on Health Information (InfAct), is to explore the future of the policy guiding role of the ECHI list, the process of adapting and innovating the list and the role of current member state initiatives in this.

Methods

Relevant technical information, available via 'doc(umentation) sheets' dating from 2012, was subjected to an update process. Potential improvements in content (additions, deletions, and adjustments), overall balance and policy relevance were suggested by health information experts (via survey and expert meetings). This work will be expanded in the near future of InfAct.

Results

Peer-reviewed updates of the doc sheets included aligning with meta information from relevant data collecting bodies and reviving web links. A process to guide content changes to the list is in development, balancing sustainability and updates for public health policy. Online background ECHI information is disseminated via ECHI.eu.

Conclusions

Health information experts still consider the ECHI shortlist important for EU health policy, but it needs to be modernized and promoted. A formal structure is needed to ensure the highest value to EC and MS health policies. The future distributed research Infrastructure on population health (DIPoH) may host the shaping and governing the ECHI, in liaison with EC and MS.

WHO Action Network on Measuring Health Literacy: the Italian pilot for the Survey 2019 Title

Background

Health Literacy-HL is an important determinant to improve and maintain health and quality of life during life course. HL implies people’s knowledge, motivation, competencies to access, understand, appraise, apply information to make judgements and decisions in everyday life concerning healthcare, disease prevention, health promotion. Thanks to Ministry of Health funds, Italy joined the WHO Action Network on Measuring Population and Organizational Health Literacy-M-POHL for collecting comparable data on HL in order to measure and promote citizens’ HL among MS.

Objective: The HLS-EU-Q16 questionnaire was administered to a sample of adult population during the Health Examination Survey-HES of the CUORE Project started in 2018, to verify and evaluate the feasibility of the HL survey.

Methods

One hundred people aged 35-74 years, resident in Reggio Calabria (South of Italy), were interviewed (face-to-face) following consecutive access to the HES. According to the HLS-EU-Q16 sum score, three levels of HL were defined: inadequate, problematic, and sufficient. HL mean score and standard deviation-SD were elaborated together with prevalence of the three HL levels. Socio-demographics conditions, lifestyles, risk factors were measured during the HES.

Results

HL mean score of 98 completed questionnaires (47 men, 51 women) was 13.0 (SD = 3.5), with no sex difference; prevalence of persons with inadequate HL was 11.2%, problematic 26.5%, sufficient 62.3%. Sufficient HL level presents the highest prevalence (72%) of high educational level. Smoking habit decreases as HL level increases.

Conclusions

The HLS-EU-Q16 questionnaire represents a standardised tool applicable in the general population. Preliminary results from the Italian pilot of the HLS-EU-Q16 suggest that the survey is feasible within the HES of the CUORE Project, with the opportunity to link HL data with HES measured data. More than one third of interviewed adult population have inadequate/problematic HL.

Global cardiovascular risk assessment: a national training course for General Practitioners

Background

Identification of high risk individuals is one of the main goals of the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and constitutes the basis for implementing actions aiming at reducing modifiable risk factors at individual level through changing life styles or drug interventions. The most appropriate method for identifying high risk individuals is the absolute risk assessment, a probability indicator of incidence, predictable on the basis of risk factors levels.

Objectives

The CUORE project score of the National Institute of Health-ISS is adopted in Italy; since 2007 ISS has implemented a national training course for General Practitioners-GPs with the aim of supporting and facilitating the use of CVD risk assessment in clinical practice as a preventive action in the general population.

Results

The training course is based on five sequential packages linked to educational credits: packages 1-2 facilitate the adoption of standardised methodologies for the assessment of CVD risk score; in package 3 patients are invited by GPs to assess the risk score; packages 4-5 evaluate and discuss data collected with GPs and stakeholders. A cascade training was implemented: ISS personnel provided training to local GPs who in turn provided the same training to other GPs. Two manuals for the training course were published.

Since 2007 about 4,300 GPs were trained; about 320,000 10-year CVD risk assessments were performed in 260,000 men and women aged 35-69 years. Feedback was provided to all GPs participating to the 4th-5th packages of the training courses.

Conclusions

Implementation of the training course for the use of CVD risk assessment in the population represents a primary preventive action according to the recommendation of the EU Guideline on CVD prevention. The collected data may play an important role in the identification of strengths and weaknesses of preventive actions and represents the first step to improve good clinical practices standards.

Monitoring of obesity in the Italian adult population: preliminary results of 1998-2018 trend

Background

Obesity is a risk factor for the majority of non-communicable diseases-NCDs. In the Italian country profile, the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration estimated the 2010 obesity prevalence at 19.0% (95% confidence interval - C.I. 15.7-22.7) in women aged 18 years and over and 18.5% (95% C.I. 15.1-22.0) in men, with a very low probability (2-9%) of halting the increase of obesity by 2025 (WHO global obesity target). This preliminary analysis aims to assess 20 years trend of BMI and obesity in the Italian general adult population using the data collected within the CUORE Project.

Methods

Mean of BMI and prevalence of obesity (BMI > =30 kg/m2) in random samples of resident population in 6 Italian Regions, aged 35-74 years, stratified by age and sex, were assessed in an on-going survey started in 2018 (men 612; women 649), and compared to those assessed in the same Regions in 1998-2002 (men 1933, women 1926) and in 2008-2012 (men 1306; women 1318). Weight and height were measured using standardized methodologies. Surveys were partly funded by the Italian Ministry of Health-CCM and approved by the National Institute of Health ethical committee.

Results

In men, mean values of BMI resulted 26.6 kg/m2 (95% C.I. 26.4-26.8) in 1998 survey, 27.5 (27.2-27.7) in 2008 and 26.5 (26.1-26.8) in 2018; prevalence of obesity was 16.8% (95% C.I. 15.1-18.4) in 1998, 23.5% (21.2-25.8) in 2008 and 17.3% (14.4-20.4) in 2018. In women mean values of BMI were 26.1 kg/m2 (95% C.I.: 25.9-26.4) in 1998, 26.4 (26.1-26.7) in 2008 and 25.5 (25.1-25.9) in 2018; prevalence of obesity was 20.7% (95% C.I.: 18.9-22.5), 21.9% (19.7-24.2) and 19.0% (15.9-22.0) respectively.

Conclusions

Preliminary data of first 6 Regions (out of 10 to be examined in the on-going survey) suggest that mean BMI and prevalence of obesity in Italian adult population are still very high; if confirmed, in the last ten years a reduction seems to be occurred increasing the probability of meeting the WHO obesity target by 2025.

Key messages

Mean BMI and prevalence of obesity in Italian adult population are still high. If confirmed, in the last ten years a reduction of mean BMI and prevalence of obesity in Italian adult population seems to be occurred.

Preventive actions for the gradual reduction of excessive salt intake and its monitoring in Italy

Issue

The WHO Global Action Plan for the Prevention of NCDs recommends a 30% relative reduction in mean population intake of salt/sodium. To this end, the Italian Ministry of Health (MoH) has strengthened prevention and health promotion through the “Gaining health: making healthy choices easy” Programme and the National Preventive Plan (NPP) 2014-2019, with the collaboration of the Interdisciplinary Working group for Salt Reduction in Italy (GIRCSI).

Description of the problem

According to the “Gaining Health” Programme, agreements between the MoH and the associations of artisan bakers and food industry companies were signed since 2009 to reduce the salt content in bread and in other food products. The reduction of excessive salt intake is one of the main objective of the NPP 2014-2019 pursued by the Regions through initiatives as local inter-sectors agreements and information activities for the population and training for food sector operators. The Italian Institute of Health conducts national surveys to estimate habitual salt intake in the general adult population by collecting 24h urine. Baseline assessment was in 2008-2012 from random samples of persons aged 35-79 years, resident in all 20 Regions. A new survey is ongoing (2018-2019) involving persons aged 35-74 years, resident in 10 Regions. Surveys are funded by the MoH-CCM; urinary sodium excretion is effected by a central lab at Federico II University of Naples, subjected to strict quality controls.

Results

The baseline survey showed a mean sodium excretion of 10.6 g/24h (95% confidence interval 10.5-10.8) in 1963 men and 8.2g/24h (8.1-8.4) in 1894 women. Results of the ongoing survey are expected in the coming months.

Lessons

In Italy preventive actions of salt reduction supported by the MoH have been implemented. Estimation of salt intake in diet by 24h/urine is included. Results of baseline and on-going surveys will allow to estimate the possibility of meeting the WHO salt reduction target by 2025.

Key messages

In Italy inter-sectors preventive actions of salt reduction are implemented. Results of the baseline and on-going surveys will allow to estimate in Italy the possibility of meeting the WHO salt reduction target by 2025.

The innovative use of health information in public health policy across EU-Member States

Background

Health information systems both at the national and international level play a key role in ensuring that timely and reliable evidence is used for operational and strategic decision making inside and outside the health sector. The availability of data generated from different sources is increasing with the possibility to link these data sources together. However, more efficient data generation processes are required to use data collected for different purposes initially, as well as advanced statistical techniques to generate comparable and timely health information. The main objective is to explore the innovative use of health information for better public health policy across the Member States.

Methods

As part of InfAct, we have conducted as survey among EU-MS to describe the innovative use of data sources. We are collecting inspiring examples on the innovative use of health information based on national or European data networks involved with health policy-making at national, regional or local level. We are further developing generic methods to estimate health indicators using machine learning techniques and mathematical modelling.

Results

These approaches will generate a roadmap on the innovative use of health information across Member States, enlarge the existing list of health indicators estimated from linked data and/or advanced statistical techniques, inform on the implications of these indicators in health policy with inspiring examples from Member States, and provide methodological guidelines for using linked data and advanced statistics to estimate health indicators, and composite outcome measures.

Conclusions

This work will highlight the gaps in the innovative use of data sources, and improve the comparability of health indicators and the capacity of EU-Member states to apply innovation for increased relevance and timeliness of health information for public health policy-making.

Prioritizing Health Information in Europe – What do we want and need to know?

Background

Prioritization of Health information (HI) involves the establishment of methodological standards, and the development of political momentum to reliably track health status and health determinants. This is important in order to strengthen the evidence base for public health policies and facilitate effective delivery of healthcare services. In support of the establishment of a sustainable EU-wide Health information system, this consortium explores how HI is prioritized in EU and associated countries.

Methods

The Robert Koch Institute is conducting an online Policy Delphi survey among InfAct project partners, stakeholders from EU-Member States and associated countries. The Delphi methodology allows for rankings and priority-setting among a group of experts. The Policy Delphi facilitates the analysis of the impact and acceptability of a proposed policy option. The survey targets experts in national public health institutes and agencies, ministries of health and research. Participants are invited to provide information regarding their national HI prioritization processes, and to rank prioritization strategies and criteria, according to their degree of “desirability”, “feasibility”, “importance” and “confidence”.

Results

The Delphi survey will compile and assess processes and methods used to prioritize health information at national level in the EU and associated countries. The expected outcome is a list of good-practices in health information development and prioritization within countries, which could be further integrated to a health information prioritization strategy at the European level.

Conclusions

Prioritizing health information ensures that the right data is collected, is used to support ongoing public health policy action, and to capture emerging public health issues. This overview of prioritization strategies and methods aims to promote evidence-based public health by structuring exchanges about national HI prioritization in Europe.

Italian participation to the WHO action network on measuring health literacy: policy implications

Issue

Health literacy (HL) is recognized as a determinant, mediator or moderator of health and of use and results of health care services Inadequate HL is associated with patient disengagement, inappropriateness of care, increased health care costs, and higher mortality rates.

Description of the problem

Few previous studies suggested that inadequate HL is a prevailing problem in Italy. As compared with the European Countries, Italy has peculiar characteristics of socio-demographic determinants of HL levels, which constitute a challenge for policy making. In so far HL has not been considered as a strategic priority for the Italian National Health Service. The Italian National Institute of Health and Ministry of Health are promoting a national program on HL by adhering to the WHO action network on measuring population and organizational health literacy (M-POHL). Main aim of the program is to propose policies that could enable all citizens to share the benefits of improved HL. A national population survey, coordinated at European level, has been planned in each participating country in 2019.

Preliminary results

We are setting up the survey using the questionnaire with 47 specific questions about HL and 32 about lifestyles and demographic characteristics. Updated results of this survey will be analysed in order to define a strategic line for the implementation of actions for the improvement of HL in the next National Prevention Plan. Furthermore, the national survey will be scheduled and repeated to monitor results.

Lesson State

Policies can be implemented at individual, community, organization or system level. Italy is at the beginning of its experience in this field. A national steering committee of experts has also been appointed to support HL policy initiatives. The comparison with existing policies in other countries within the M-POHL action will be another asset to develop HL policies and related activities to benefit citizens, patients and communities.

Three mitochondrial transporters of Saccharomyces cerevisiae are essential for ammonium fixation and lysine biosynthesis in synthetic minimal medium

The nuclear genes of Saccharomyces cerevisiae YHM2, ODC1 and ODC2 encode three transporters that are localized in the inner mitochondrial membrane. In this study, the roles of YHM2, ODC1 and ODC2 in the assimilation of nitrogen and in the biosynthesis of lysine have been investigated. Both the odc1Δodc2Δ double knockout and the yhm2Δ mutant grew similarly as the YPH499 wild-type strain on synthetic minimal medium (SM) containing 2% glucose and ammonia as the main nitrogen source. In contrast, the yhm2Δodc1Δodc2Δ triple knockout exhibited a marked growth defect under the same conditions. This defect was fully restored by the individual expression of YHM2, ODC1 or ODC2 in the triple deletion strain. Furthermore, the lack of growth of yhm2Δodc1Δodc2Δ on 2% glucose SM was rescued by the addition of glutamate, but not glutamine, to the medium. Using lysine-prototroph YPH499-derived strains, the yhm2Δodc1Δodc2Δ knockout (but not the odc1Δodc2Δ and yhm2Δ mutants) also displayed a growth defect in lysine biosynthesis on 2% glucose SM, which was rescued by the addition of lysine and, to a lesser extent, by the addition of 2-aminoadipate. Additional analysis of the triple mutant showed that it is not respiratory-deficient and does not display mitochondrial DNA instability. These results provide evidence that only the simultaneous absence of YHM2, ODC1 and ODC2 impairs the export from the mitochondrial matrix of i) 2-oxoglutarate which is necessary for the synthesis of glutamate and ammonium fixation in the cytosol and ii) 2-oxoadipate which is required for lysine biosynthesis in the cytosol. Finally, the data presented allow one to suggest that the yhm2Δodc1Δodc2Δ triple knockout is suitable in complementation studies aimed at assessing the pathogenic potential of human SLC25A21 (ODC) mutations.

Genotype-by-environment effect on bioactive compounds in strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.)

BACKGROUND

The assessment of the relative contribution of genotype, environment and the genotype-by-environmental (G × E) interaction to the performance of varieties is necessary when determining adaptation capacity.

RESULTS

The influence of temperature, ultraviolet (UV)-irradiation and sunshine duration on the quality and the composition of fruits was investigated in nine strawberry cultivars grown at three different altitudes. The UV-radiation intensity affected both pH and sugar content, which were higher for most of the varieties at low altitudes, whereas total titratable acidity was less. Fruits from plants grown at low elevation generally had a higher benzoic acid derivative content. A significant correlation was found between phenylpropanoid content and UV-radiation and sunshine duration. The flavone class appeared to be affected most by the variety effect, in contrast to flavonols and ellagitannins, which were highly affected by the environment. The accumulation of a number of secondary metabolites in strawberry fruits grown in an unusual environmental condition highlighted the acclimation effects in terms of the response of plants to abiotic stress. Finally, the genetic factor only appears to be more influential for the varieties 'Sveva' and 'Marmolada' with respect to all of the parameters considered.

CONCLUSION

A 'plant environmental metabolomics' approach has been used successfully to assess the phenotypic plasticity of varieties that showed different magnitudes with respect to the relationship between environmental conditions and the accumulation of healthy compounds. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Frequency of a natural truncated allele of MdMLO19 in the germplasm of Malus domestica

Podosphaera leucotricha is the causal agent of powdery mildew (PM) in apple. To reduce the amount of fungicides required to control this pathogen, the development of resistant apple cultivars should become a priority. Resistance to PM was achieved in various crops by knocking out specific members of the MLO gene family that are responsible for PM susceptibility (S-genes). In apple, the knockdown of MdMLO19 resulted in PM resistance. However, since gene silencing technologies such as RNAi are perceived unfavorably in Europe, a different approach that exploits this type of resistance is needed. This work evaluates the presence of non-functional naturally occurring alleles of MdMLO19 in apple germplasm. The screening of the re-sequencing data of 63 apple individuals led to the identification of 627 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in five MLO genes (MdMLO5, MdMLO7, MdMLO11, MdMLO18, and MdMLO19), 127 of which were located in exons. The T-1201 insertion of a single nucleotide in MdMLO19 caused the formation of an early stop codon, resulting in a truncated protein lacking 185 amino acids, including the calmodulin-binding domain. The presence of the insertion was evaluated in 115 individuals. It was heterozygous in 64 and homozygous in 25. Twelve of the 25 individuals carrying the insertion in homozygosity were susceptible to PM. After barley, pea, cucumber, and tomato, apple would be the fifth species for which a natural non-functional mlo allele has been found.

Nonsense Mutation Inside Anthocyanidin Synthase Gene Controls Pigmentation in Yellow Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.)

Yellow raspberry fruits have reduced anthocyanin contents and offer unique possibility to study the genetics of pigment biosynthesis in this important soft fruit. Anthocyanidin synthase (Ans) catalyzes the conversion of leucoanthocyanidin to anthocyanidin, a key committed step in biosynthesis of anthocyanins. Molecular analysis of the Ans gene enabled to identify an inactive ans allele in a yellow fruit raspberry ("Anne"). A 5 bp insertion in the coding region was identified and designated as ans⁺⁵. The insertion creates a premature stop codon resulting in a truncated protein of 264 amino acids, compared to 414 amino acids wild-type ANS protein. This mutation leads to loss of function of the encoded protein that might also result in transcriptional downregulation of Ans gene as a secondary effect, i.e., nonsense-mediated mRNA decay. Further, this mutation results in loss of visible and detectable anthocyanin pigments. Functional characterization of raspberry Ans/ans alleles via complementation experiments in the Arabidopsis thaliana ldox mutant supports the inactivity of encoded protein through ans⁺⁵ and explains the proposed block in the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway in raspberry. Taken together, our data shows that the mutation inside Ans gene in raspberry is responsible for yellow fruit phenotypes.

Dogs'olfactory diagnostics applied on human species: state of the art and clinical perspectives

Dogs'smell ability is about 10000-100000 more developed than humans' one. Dogs smell is usually exploited in forensic medicine, to find missing people and specific substances showing peculiar sensorial features. In clinic, there is the possibility to take advantage of dogs smell, which are conveniently trained, for the screening of cancers and other diseases. The common feature is the presence of molecules in organic samples that may be considered as biomarkers of a specific pathology. In cancer, scientific evidences exist about screening of melanoma, lung, breast, rectum, ovarian, prostate and bladder cancer. Instead, other pathologies manifest the presence of organic volatile compounds in biologic materials, such as spit, faeces and urine that may be studied by dogs smell in order to identify the presence of a specific disease. This review shows the state of the art of actual dogs' olfactory ability based on scientific principles and the advantages and the disadvantages of this method. The authors also reveal some potential pathologies joined by the presence of organic volatile compounds, which may be investigated by dogs smell.

18th European Symposium on Radiopharmacy and Radiopharmaceuticals

OP03 Selective extraction of medically-related radionuclides from proton-irradiated thorium targets

V. Radchenko, J.W. Engle, C. Roy, J. Griswold, M.F. Nortier, E.R. Birnbaum, M. Brugh, S. Mirzadeh, K. D. John, M.E. Fassbender

OP04 Comparison of [68Ga]FSC(succ-RGD)3 and [68Ga]NODAGA-RGD for PET imaging of αvβ3 integrin expression

Chuangyan Zhai, Gerben M. Franssen, Milos Petrik, Peter Laverman, Clemens Decristoforo

OP05 A new NPY-Y1R targeting peptide for breast cancer PET imaging

Ait-Mohand Samia, Dumulon-Perreault Véronique, Guérin Brigitte

OP06 The influence of multivalency on CCK 2 receptor targeting

D. Summer, A. Kroess, C. Rangger, H. Haas, P. Laverman, F. Gerben, E. von Guggenberg, C.Decristoforo

OP07 SPECT Imaging of αvβ3 Expression by [99mTc(N)PNP43]- Bifunctional Chimeric RGD Peptide not Cross-Reacting with αvβ5

Cristina Bolzati, Nicola Salvarese, Fiorenzo Refosco, Laura Meléndez-Alafort, Debora Carpanese, Antonio Rosato, Michele Saviano, Annarita Del Gatto, Daniela Comegna, Laura Zaccaro

OP09 New dienophiles for the inverse-electron-demand Diels-Alder reaction and for pretargeted PET imaging

Emilie Billaud, Muneer Ahamed, Frederik Cleeren, Elnaz Shahbazali, Tim Noël, Volker Hessel, Alfons Verbruggen and Guy Bormans

OP10 New complexing agent for Al18F-labelling of heat-sensitive biomolecules: Synthesis and preclinical evaluation of Al18F-RESCA1-HAS

Cleeren F, Lecina J, Koole M, Verbruggen A and Bormans G

OP11 A novel versatile precursor efficient for F-18 radiolabelling via click-chemistry

B. Lugatoa, S. Stucchia, E.A. Turollaa, L. Giulianoa, S.Toddea, P. Ferraboschib

OP12 A general applicable method to quantify unidentified UV impurities in radiopharmaceuticals

R.P. Klok, M.P.J. Mooijer, N.H. Hendrikse, A.D. Windhorst

OP13 Development of [¹⁸F]Fluoro-C-glycosides to radiolabel peptides

Collet C., Petry N., Chrétien F., Karcher G., Pellegrini-Moïse N., Lamandé-Langle S.

OP14 A Microfluidic Approach for the 68Ga-labeling of PSMAHBED-CC and NODAGA-RGD

Sarah Pfaff, Cecile Philippe, Markus Mitterhauser, Marcus Hacker, Wolfgang Wadsak

OP16 Surprising reactivity of astatine in the nucleophilic substitution of aryliodonium salts: application to the radiolabeling of antibodies

François Guérard, Yong-Sok Lee, Sébastien Gouard, Kwamena Baidoo, Cyrille Alliot, Michel Chérel, Martin W. Brechbiel, Jean-François Gestin

OP17 ⁶⁴Cu-NOTA-pertuzumab F(ab')₂ fragments, a second-generation probe for PET imaging of the response of HER2-positive breast cancer to trastuzumab (Herceptin)

Lam K, Chan C, Reilly RM

OP18 Development of radiohalogenated analogues of a avb6-specific peptide for high LET particle emitter targeted radionuclide therapy of cancer

Salomé Paillas, John Marshall, Jean-Pierre Pouget, Jane Sosabowski

OP19 Ligand Specific Efficiency (LSE) as a guide in tracer optimization

Emmanuelle Briard, Yves P. Auberson, John Reilly, Mark Healy, David Sykes

OP23 The radiosynthesis of an 18F-labeled triglyceride, developed to visualize and quantify brown adipose tissue activity

Andreas Paulus, Wouter van Marken Lichtenbelt,Felix Mottaghy, Matthias Bauwens

OP24 Influence of the fluorescent dye on the tumor targeting properties of dual-labeled HBED-CC based PSMA inhibitors

Baranski, Ann-Christin, Schäfer, Martin, Bauder-Wüst, Ulrike, Haberkorn, Uwe, Eder, Matthias, Kopka, Klaus

OP25 [18F]MEL050 as a melanin PET tracer : fully automated radiosynthesis and evaluation for the detection of pigmented melanoma in mice pulmonary metastases

Chaussard M, Hosten B, Vignal N, Tsoupko-Sitnikov V, Hernio N, Hontonnou F, Merlet P, Poyet JL, Sarda-Mantel L, Rizzo-Padoin N

OP26 Design and Preclinical Evaluation of Novel Radiofluorinated PSMA Targeting Ligands Based on PSMA-617

J. Cardinale, M. Schäfer, M. Benešová, U. Bauder-Wüst, O. Seibert, F. Giesel, U. Haberkorn, M. Eder, K. Kopka

OP27 A novel radiolabeled peptide for PET imaging of prostate cancer: 64Cu-DOTHA2-PEG-RM26

Mansour Nematallah, Paquette Michel, Ait-Mohand Samia, Dumulon-Perreault Véronique, Lecomte Roger, Guérin Brigitte

OP29 Biodistribution of [¹⁸F]Amylovis®, a new radiotracer PET imaging of β-amyloid plaques

Fernandez-Maza L, Rivera-Marrero S, Prats Capote A, Parrado-Gallego A, Fernandez-Gomez I, Balcerzyk M, Sablon-Carrazana M, Perera-Pintado A, Merceron-Martinez D, Acosta-Medina E, Rodriguez-Tanty C

OP30 Synthesis and preclinical evaluation of [11C]-BA1 PET tracer for the imaging of CSF-1R

Bala Attili, Muneer Ahamed, Guy Bormans

OP31 In vivo imaging of the MCHR1 in the ventricular system via [18F]FE@SNAP

C. Philippe, M. Zeilinger, T. Scherer, C. Fürnsinn, M. Dumanic, W. Wadsak, M. Hacker, M. Mitterhauser

OP32 Synthesis of the first carbon-11 labelled P2Y12 receptor antagonist for imaging the anti-inflammatory phenotype of activated microglia

B. Janssen, D.J. Vugts, G.T. Molenaar, U. Funke, P.S. Kruijer, F. Dollé, G. Bormans, A.A. Lammertsma, A.D. Windhorst

OP33 Radiosynthesis of a selective HDAC6 inhibitor [11C]KB631 and in vitro and ex vivo evaluation

Koen Vermeulen, Muneer Ahamed, Michael Schnekenburger, Mathy Froeyen, Dag Erlend Olberg, Marc Diederich, Guy Bormansa

OP34 Improving metabolic stability of fluorine-18 labelled verapamil analogues

Raaphorst RM, Luurtsema G, Lammertsma AA, Elsinga PH, Windhorst AD

OP36 Development of a novel PET tracer for the activin receptor-like kinase 5

Lonneke Rotteveel, Uta Funke, Peter ten Dijke, Harm Jan Bogaard, Adriaan A. Lammertsma, Albert D. Windhorst

OP37 SPECT imaging and biodistribution studies of 111In-EGF-Au-PEG nanoparticles in vivo

Lei Song, Sarah Able, Nadia Falzone, Veerle Kersemans, Katherine Vallis

OP38 Melanoma targeting with [99mTc(N)(PNP3)]-labeled NAPamide derivatives: preliminary pharmacological studies

Davide Carta, Nicola Salvarese, Wiebke Sihver, Feng Gao, Hans Jürgen Pietzsch, Barbara Biondi, Paolo Ruzza, Fiorenzo Refosco, Cristina Bolzati

OP39 [⁶⁸Ga]NODAGA-RGD: cGMP synthesis and data from a phase I clinical study

Roland Haubner, Armin Finkensted, Armin Stegmair, Christine Rangger, Clemens Decristoforo, Heinz Zoller, Irene J. Virgolin

OP44 Implementation of a GMP-grade radiopharmacy facility in Maastricht

Ivo Pooters, Maartje Lotz, Roel Wierts, Felix Mottaghy, Matthias Bauwens

OP45 Setting up a GMP production of a new radiopharmaceutical

Forsback, Sarita, Bergman Jörgen, Kivelä Riikka

OP48 In vitro and in vivo evaluation of 68-gallium labeled Fe3O4-DPD nanoparticles as potential PET/MRI imaging agents

M. Karageorgou, M. Radović, C. Tsoukalas, B. Antic, M. Gazouli, M. Paravatou-Petsotas, S. Xanthopouls, M. Calamiotou, D. Stamopoulos, S. Vranješ-Durić, P. Bouziotis

OP49 Fast PET imaging of inflammation using 68Ga-citrate with Fe-containing salts of hydroxy acids

A. S. Lunev, A. A. Larenkov, K.A. Petrosova, O. E. Klementyeva, G. E. Kodina

PP01 Installation and validation of 11C-methionine synthesis

Kvernenes, O.H., Adamsen, T.C.H.

PP02 Fully automated synthesis of 68Ga-labelled peptides using the IBA Synthera® and Synthera® Extension modules

René Martin, Sebastian Weidlich, Anna-Maria Zerges, Cristiana Gameiro, Neva Lazarova, Marco Müllera

PP03 GMP compliant production of ¹⁵O-labeled water using IBA 18 MeV proton cyclotron

Gert Luurtsema, Michèl de Vries, Michel Ghyoot, Gina van der Woude, Rolf Zijlma, Rudi Dierckx, Hendrikus H. Boersma, Philip H. Elsinga

PP04 In vitro Nuclear Imaging Potential of New Subphthalocyanine and Zinc Phthalocyanine

Fatma Yurt Lambrecht, Ozge Er, Mine Ince, Cıgır Biray Avci, Cumhur Gunduz, Fatma Aslihan Sarı

PP05 Synthesis, Photodynamic Therapy Efficacy and Nuclear Imaging Potential of Zinc Phthalocyanines

Kasim Ocakoglu, Ozge Er, Onur Alp Ersoz, Fatma Yurt Lambrecht, Mine Ince, Cagla Kayabasi, Cumhur Gunduz

PP06 Radio-U(H)PLC – the Search on the Optimal Flow Cell for the γ-Detector

Torsten Kniess, Sebastian Meister, Steffen Fischer, Jörg Steinbach

PP07 Radiolabeling, characterization & biodistribution study of cysteine and its derivatives with Tc99m

Rabia Ashfaq, Saeed Iqbal, Atiq-ur-Rehman, Irfan ullah Khan

PP08 Radiolabelling of poly (lactic-co.glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles with 99mTC

R Iglesias-Jerez, Cayero-Otero, L. Martín-Banderas, A. Perera-Pintado, I. Borrego-Dorado

PP09 Development of [¹⁸F]PD-410 as a non-peptidic PET radiotracer for gastrin releasing peptide receptors

Ines Farinha-Antunes, Chantal Kwizera, Enza Lacivita, Ermelinda Lucente, Mauro Niso, Paola De Giorgio, Roberto Perrone, Nicola A. Colabufo, Philip H. Elsinga, Marcello Leopoldo

PP10 An improved nucleophilic synthesis of 2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-6-(2-[18F]fluoroethoxy) benzothiazole ([18F]FEDMBT), potential diagnostic agent for breast cancer imaging by PET

V.V. Vaulina, O.S. Fedorova, V.V. Orlovskaja, С.L. Chen, G.Y. Li, F.C. Meng, R.S. Liu, H.E. Wang, R.N. Krasikova

PP11 Internal radiation dose assessment of radiopharmaceuticals prepared with accelerator-produced 99mTc

Laura Meléndez-Alafort, Mohamed Abozeid, Guillermina Ferro-Flores, Anna Negri, Michele Bello, Nikolay Uzunov, Martha Paiusco, Juan Esposito, Antonio Rosato

PP12 A specialized five-compartmental model software for pharmacokinetic parameters calculation

Laura Meléndez-Alafort, Cristina Bolzati, Guillermina Ferro-Flores, Nicola Salvarese, Debora Carpanese, Mohamed Abozeid, Antonio Rosato, Nikolay Uzunov

PP13 Molecular imaging of the pharmacokinetic behavior of low molecular weight ¹⁸F-labeled PEtOx in comparison to ⁸⁹Zr-labeled PEtOx

Palmieri L, Verbrugghen T, Glassner M, Hoogenboom R, Staelens S, Wyffels L

PP14 Towards nucleophilic synthesis of the α-[18F]fluoropropyl-L-dihydroxyphenylalanine

V. V. Orlovskaja, O. F. Kuznetsova, O. S. Fedorova, V. I. Maleev, Yu. N. Belokon, A. Geolchanyan, A. S. Saghyan, L. Mu, R. Schibli, S. M. Ametamey, R. N. Krasikova

PP15 A convenient one-pot synthesis of [18F]clofarabine

Revunov, Evgeny, Malmquist, Jonas, Johnström, Peter, Van Valkenburgh, Juno, Steele, Dalton, Halldin, Christer, Schou, Magnus

PP16 BODIPY-estradiol conjugates as multi-modality tumor imaging agents

Samira Osati,Michel Paquette,Simon Beaudoin,Hasrat Ali,Brigitte Guerin, Jeffrey V. Leyton, Johan E. van Lier

PP17 Easy and high yielding synthesis of 68Ga-labelled HBED-PSMA and DOTA-PSMA by using a Modular-Lab Eazy automatic synthesizer

Di Iorio V, Iori M, Donati C, Lanzetta V, Capponi PC, Rubagotti S, Dreger T, Kunkel F, Asti M

PP18 Synthesis and evaluation of fusarinine C-based octadentate bifunctional chelators for zirconium-89 labelling

Chuangyan Zhai, Christine Rangger, Dominik Summer, Hubertus Haas, Clemens Decristoforo

PP19 Fully automated production of [18F]NaF using a re-configuring FDG synthesis module.

Suphansa Kijprayoon, Ananya Ruangma, Suthatip Ngokpol, Samart Tuamputsha

PP20 Extension of the Carbon-11 Small Labeling Agents Toolbox and Conjugate Addition

Ulrike Filp, Anna Pees, Carlotta Taddei, Aleksandra Pekošak, Antony D. Gee, Alex J. Poot, Albert D. Windhorst

PP21 In vitro studies on BBB penetration of pramipexole encapsulated theranostic liposomes for the therapy of Parkinson’s disease

Mine Silindir Gunay, A. Yekta Ozer, Suna Erdogan, Ipek Baysal, Denis Guilloteau, Sylvie Chalon

PP22 Factors affecting tumor uptake of 99mTc-HYNIC-VEGF165

Filippo Galli, Marco Artico, Samanta Taurone, Enrica Bianchi, Bruce D. Weintraub, Mariusz Skudlinski, Alberto Signore

PP23 Rhenium-188: a suitable radioisotope for targeted radiotherapy

Nicolas Lepareur, Nicolas Noiret, François Hindré, Franck Lacœuille, Eric Benoist, Etienne Garin

PP24 Preparation of a broad palette of 68Ga radiopharmaceuticals for clinical applications

Trejo-Ballado F, Zamora-Romo E, Manrique-Arias JC, Gama-Romero HM, Contreras-Castañon G, Tecuapetla-Chantes RG, Avila-Rodriguez MA

PP25 68Ga-peptide preparation with the use of two 68Ge/68Ga-generators

H. Kvaternik, D. Hausberger, C. Zink, B. Rumpf, R. M. Aigner

PP26 Assay of HEPES in 68Ga-peptides by HPLC

H. Kvaternik, D. Hausberger, B. Rumpf, R. M. Aigner

PP27 Preparation, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of a 99mTc(I)-Diethyl Ester (S,S)-Ethylenediamine- N,N´-DI-2-(3-Cyclohexyl) Propionic acid as a target-specific radiopharmaceutical

Drina Janković, Mladen Lakić, Aleksandar Savić, Slavica Ristić, Nadežda Nikolić, Aleksandar Vukadinović, Tibor J. Sabo, Sanja Vranješ-Đurić

PP28 90Y-labeled magnetite nanoparticles for possible application in cancer therapy

S. Vranješ-Đurić, M. Radović, D. Janković, N. Nikolić, G. F. Goya, P. Calatayud, V. Spasojević, B. Antić

PP29 Simplified automation of the GMP production of 68Ga-labelled peptides

David Goblet, Cristiana Gameiro, Neva Lazarova

PP30 Combining commercial production of multi-products in a GMP environment with Clinical & R&D activities

Cristiana Gameiro, Ian Oxley, Antero Abrunhosa, Vasko Kramer, Maria Vosjan, Arnold Spaans

PP31 ⁹⁹mTc(CO)3-labeling and Comparative In-Vivo Evaluation of Two Clicked cRGDfK Peptide Derivatives

Kusum Vats, Drishty Satpati, Haladhar D Sarma, Sharmila Banerjee

PP32 Application of AnaLig resin for 99mTc separation from molybdenum excess

Wojdowska W., Pawlak D.W., Parus L. J., Garnuszek P., Mikołajczak R.

PP33 Constraints for selection of suitable precursor for one-step automated synthesis of [18F]FECNT, the dopamine transporter ligand

Pijarowska-Kruszyna J, Jaron A, Kachniarz A, Malkowski B, Garnuszek P, Mikolajczak R

PP34 Gamma scintigraphy studies with 99mTc- amoxicillin sodium in bacterially infected and sterile inflamed rats

Derya Ilem-Ozdemir, Oya Caglayan-Orumlu, Makbule Asikoglu

PP35 Preparation of 99mTc- Amoxicillin Sodium Lyophilized Kit

Derya Ilem-Ozdemir, Oya Caglayan-Orumlu, Makbule Asikoglu

PP36 Outfits of Tracerlan FXC-PRO for 11C-Labeling

Arponen Eveliina, Helin Semi, Saarinen Timo, Vauhkala Simo, Kokkomäki Esa, Lehikoinen Pertti

PP37 Microfluidic synthesis of ω-[18F]fluoro-1-alkynes

Mariarosaria De Simone, Giancarlo Pascali, Ludovica Carzoli, Mauro Quaglierini, Mauro Telleschi, Piero A. Salvadori

PP38 Automated 18F-flumazenil production using chemically resistant disposable cassettes

Phoebe Lam, Martina Aistleitner, Reinhard Eichinger, Christoph Artner

PP39 The effect of the eluent solutions (TBAHCO3, Kryptand K2.2.2) on the radiochemical yields of 18F-Fluoromethylcholine

Surendra Nakka, Hemantha Kumara MC, Al-Qahtani Mohammed

PP40 [68Ga]Radiolabeling of short peptide that has a PET imaging potentials

Al-Qahtani, Mohammed, Al-Malki, Yousif

PP41 Is validation of radiochemical purity analysis in a public hospital in a developing country possible?

N Mambilima, SM Rubow

PP42 Improved automated radiosynthesis of [18F]FEPPA

N. Berroterán-Infante, M. Hacker, M. Mitterhauser, W. Wadsak

PP43 Synthesis and initial evaluation of Al18F-RESCA1-TATE for somatostatin receptor imaging with PET

Uta Funke, Frederik Cleeren, Joan Lecina, Rodrigo Gallardo, Alfons M. Verbruggen, Guy Bormans

PP44 Radiolabeling and SPECT/CT imaging of different polymer-decorated zein nanoparticles for oral administration

Rocío Ramos-Membrive, Ana Brotons, Gemma Quincoces, Laura Inchaurraga, Inés Luis de Redín, Verónica Morán, Berta García-García, Juan Manuel Irache, Iván Peñuelas

PP45 An analysis of the quality of 68Ga-DOTANOC radiolabelling over a 3 year period

Trabelsi, M., Cooper M.S.

PP46 In vivo biodistribution of adult human mesenchymal stem cells I (MSCS-ah) labeled with 99MTC-HMPAO administered via intravenous and intra-articular in animal model. Preliminary results

Alejandra Abella, Teodomiro Fuente, Antonio Jesús Montellano, Teresa Martínez, Ruben Rabadan, Luis Meseguer-Olmo

PP47 Synthesis of [¹⁸F]F-exendin-4 with high specific activity

Lehtiniemi P, Yim C, Mikkola K, Nuutila P, Solin O

PP48 Experimental radionuclide therapy with 177Lu-labelled cyclic minigastrin and human dosimetry estimations

von Guggenberg E, Rangger C, Mair C, Balogh L, Pöstényi Z, Pawlak D, Mikołajczak R

PP49 Synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals for cell radiolabelling using anion exchange column

Socan A, Kolenc Peitl P, Krošelj M, Rangger C, Decristoforo C

PP50 [68Ga]peptide production on commercial synthesiser mAIO

Collet C., Remy S., Didier R,Vergote T.,Karcher G., Véran N.

PP51 Dry kit formulation for efficient radiolabeling of 68Ga-PSMA

D. Pawlak, M. Maurin, P. Garnuszek, U. Karczmarczyk, R. Mikołajczak

PP52 Development of an experimental method using Cs-131 to evaluate radiobiological effects of internalized Auger-electron emitters

Pil Fredericia, Gregory Severin, Torsten Groesser, Ulli Köster, Mikael Jensen

PP53 Preclinical comparative evaluation of NOTA/NODAGA/DOTA CYCLO-RGD peptides labelled with Ga-68

R. Leonte, F. D. Puicea, A. Raicu, E. A. Min, R. Serban, G. Manda, D. Niculae

PP54 Synthesizer- and Kit-based preparation of prostate cancer imaging agent 68Ga-RM2

Marion Zerna, Hanno Schieferstein, Andre Müller, Mathias Berndt

PP55 Synthesis of pancreatic beta cell-specific [18F]fluoro-exendin-4 via strain-promoted aza-dibenzocyclooctyne/azide cycloaddition

Cheng-Bin Yim, Kirsi Mikkola, Pirjo Nuutila, Olof Solin

PP56 Automated systems for radiopharmacy

D. Seifert, J. Ráliš, O. Lebeda

PP57 Simple, suitable for everyday routine use quality control method to assess radionuclidic purity of cyclotron-produced 99mTc

Svetlana V. Selivanova, Helena Senta, Éric Lavallée, Lyne Caouette, Éric Turcotte, Roger Lecomte

PP58 Effective dose estimation using Monte Carlo simulation for patients undergoing radioiodine therapy

Marina Zdraveska Kochovska, Emilija Janjevik Ivanovska, Vesna Spasic Jokic

PP59 Chemical analysis of the rituximab radioimmunoconjugates in lyophilized formulations intended for oncological applications

Darinka Gjorgieva Ackova, Katarina Smilkov, Petre Makreski, Trajče Stafilov, Emilija Janevik-Ivanovska

PP61 The need and benefits of established radiopharmacy in developing African countries

Aschalew Alemu, Joel Munene Muchira, David Mwanza Wanjeh, Emilija Janevik-Ivanovska

PP62 University Master Program of Radiopharmacy – step forward for Good Radiopharmacy Education

Emilija Janevik-Ivanovska, Zoran Zdravev, Uday Bhonsle, Osso Júnior João Alberto, Adriano Duatti, Bistra Angelovska, Zdenka Stojanovska, Zorica Arsova Sarafinovska, Darko Bosnakovski, Darinka Gorgieva-Ackova, Katarina Smilkov, Elena Drakalska, Meera Venkatesh, Rubin Gulaboski

PP63 Synthesis and preclinical validations of a novel 18F-labelled RGD peptide prepared by ligation of a 2-cyanobenzothiazole with 1,2-aminothiol to image angiogenesis.

Didier J. Colin, James A. H. Inkster, Stéphane Germain, Yann Seimbille

Exploring potential mortality reductions in 9 European countries by improving diet and lifestyle: A modelling approach

BACKGROUND

Coronary heart disease (CHD) death rates have fallen across most of Europe in recent decades. However, substantial risk factor reductions have not been achieved across all Europe. Our aim was to quantify the potential impact of future policy scenarios on diet and lifestyle on CHD mortality in 9 European countries.

METHODS

We updated the previously validated IMPACT CHD models in 9 European countries and extended them to 2010-11 (the baseline year) to predict reductions in CHD mortality to 2020(ages 25-74years). We compared three scenarios: conservative, intermediate and optimistic on smoking prevalence (absolute decreases of 5%, 10% and 15%); saturated fat intake (1%, 2% and 3% absolute decreases in % energy intake, replaced by unsaturated fats); salt (relative decreases of 10%, 20% and 30%), and physical inactivity (absolute decreases of 5%, 10% and 15%). Probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

Under the conservative, intermediate and optimistic scenarios, we estimated 10.8% (95% CI: 7.3-14.0), 20.7% (95% CI: 15.6-25.2) and 29.1% (95% CI: 22.6-35.0) fewer CHD deaths in 2020. For the optimistic scenario, 15% absolute reductions in smoking could decrease CHD deaths by 8.9%-11.6%, Salt intake relative reductions of 30% by approximately 5.9-8.9%; 3% reductions in saturated fat intake by 6.3-7.5%, and 15% absolute increases in physical activity by 3.7-5.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

Modest and feasible policy-based reductions in cardiovascular risk factors (already been achieved in some other countries) could translate into substantial reductions in future CHD deaths across Europe. However, this would require the European Union to more effectively implement powerful evidence-based prevention policies.

Discovery of A-type procyanidin dimers in yellow raspberries by untargeted metabolomics and correlation based data analysis

INTRODUCTION

Raspberries are becoming increasingly popular due to their reported health beneficial properties. Despite the presence of only trace amounts of anthocyanins, yellow varieties seems to show similar or better effects in comparison to conventional raspberries.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this work is to characterize the metabolic differences between red and yellow berries, focussing on the compounds showing a higher concentration in yellow varieties.

METHODS

The metabolomic profile of 13 red and 12 yellow raspberries (of different varieties, locations and collection dates) was determined by UPLC-TOF-MS. A novel approach based on Pearson correlation on the extracted ion chromatograms was implemented to extract the pseudospectra of the most relevant biomarkers from high energy LC-MS runs. The raw data will be made publicly available on MetaboLights (MTBLS333).

RESULTS

Among the metabolites showing higher concentration in yellow raspberries it was possible to identify a series of compounds showing a pseudospectrum similar to that of A-type procyanidin polymers. The annotation of this group of compounds was confirmed by specific MS/MS experiments and performing standard injections.

CONCLUSIONS

In berries lacking anthocyanins the polyphenol metabolism might be shifted to the formation of a novel class of A-type procyanidin polymers.

Genetic diversity and population structure of an important wild berry crop

The success of plant breeding in the coming years will be associated with access to new sources of variation, which will include landraces and wild relatives of crop species. In order to access the reservoir of favourable alleles within wild germplasm, knowledge about the genetic diversity and the population structure of wild species is needed. Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is one of the most important wild crops growing in the forests of Northern European countries, noted for its nutritional properties and its beneficial effects on human health. Assessment of the genetic diversity of wild bilberry germplasm is needed for efforts such as in situ conservation, on-farm management and development of plant breeding programmes. However, to date, only a few local (small-scale) genetic studies of this species have been performed. We therefore conducted a study of genetic variability within 32 individual samples collected from different locations in Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Germany, and analysed genetic diversity among geographic groups. Four selected inter-simple sequence repeat primers allowed the amplification of 127 polymorphic loci which, based on analysis of variance, made it possible to identify 85 % of the genetic diversity within studied bilberry populations, being in agreement with the mixed-mating system of bilberry. Significant correlations were obtained between geographic and genetic distances for the entire set of samples. The analyses also highlighted the presence of a north-south genetic gradient, which is in accordance with recent findings on phenotypic traits of bilberry.